Ireland’s Grand Slam-winning captain Rory Best has agreed a contract extension with the Irish Rugby Football Union that will keep him at Ulster until the 2019 World Cup.

Best, who has amassed 111 caps and taken part in two Lions tours, was at the helm for the NatWest 6 Nations clean sweep that was sealed on Saturday by a conclusive 24-15 triumph over England at Twickenham.

The 35-year-old hooker was also part of the 2009 Grand Slam-winning side and, since taking over as skipper two years ago, Ireland have registered their first victory over New Zealand and a maiden Test win against the Springboks in South Africa.

Breaking News: @RoryBest2 signs IRFU contract extension to the end of the Rugby World Cup 2019 in Japan.